A gloved hand using a pipette to transfer a liquid containing yeasts and moulds - challenge test in cosmetics

The Challenge Test in Cosmetics: A Guide to microbiological quality standards

What Is The Challenge Test in cosmetics? The challenge test in cosmetics evaluates the effectiveness of a cosmetic product’s preservative system during production, storage, and the entire period of use by the end consumer. It is conducted during the product’s development phase. Essentially, the test simulates the microbiological stress the product will encounter under normal …

Three Union Jack flags hanging against a blue sky-submit cosmetic product notification SCPN UK

Submit Cosmetic Product Notification UK: A Guide

On 31 January 2020, the United Kingdom left the European Union, becoming a third country with its own regulations for the various sectors, including the cosmetics sector. The reference regulation for cosmetic products placed on the market in the United Kingdom is “The Product Safety and Metrology etc. (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, Schedule …

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Pre-packaged packaging regulations: Conformity to nominal content requirements

The Control of Pre-Packaged Packaging With the increasing development of large-scale distribution, pre-packaged packaging is becoming increasingly important. In light of this, the European Community legislator, and subsequently the legislators of various Member States, deemed it necessary to impose certain rules on manufacturing companies, the pre-packaged packaging regulations. Below, we provide a general overview of …

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Recycled Packaging in Cosmetics: An Insight into Trends and Environmental Impact

The cosmetics industry is undergoing a green revolution, with recycled packaging emerging as a key initiative to reduce its environmental impact. This article explores the growing interest in recycled packaging in cosmetics, examines industry trends, discusses environmental benefits and associated challenges, and delves into current and future innovations in this evolving field. Industry Trends In …

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Fragrance safety in cosmetics: Regulations and guidelines

Like all cosmetics, fragrances are regulated by specific rules to ensure their safety. Perfume is used within a cosmetic product, which is defined under Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 (see the latest consolidated version, including recent regulatory updates). As such, it is subject to various obligations regarding its content, the packaging in which it is marketed, …

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PFAS in cosmetics: a comprehensive overview

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Used in Cosmetics? PFAS stands for Per/Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, which includes compounds like PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid). These man-made chemicals are not found naturally in the environment and are known for their stability due to their long carbon chains, making them impermeable to water and grease. …

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Cosmetic product information file (PIF): A comprehensive guide

Under the European Cosmetics Regulation (EU Regulation No. 1223/2009), the Responsible Person marketing a cosmetic product in Europe must ensure the product is safe for human health under all expected usage conditions, prioritising consumer protection. You can read our blog article on the role and obligations of the Responsible Person. To meet this obligation, they …

Close-up of three glass bottles of cosmetic products

Refillable cosmetics regulations in the EU: A guide to safety and sustainability

As global temperatures and sea levels continue to rise, the urgency of individual and collective environmental responsibility has never been greater. The cosmetics industry, in particular, must play its part in minimising its impact on environmental pollution. Recently, there has been a noticeable shift in this direction, with many companies investing in sustainable practices and …

A close-up of a floating pink cosmetic tube

The cosmetics regulation simplified | part 2: Can we trust what cosmetic product labels say?

Cosmetic product labels provide both mandatory information and voluntary marketing claims. This article breaks down the key elements of cosmetics regulation labels requirements, helping consumers understand the true meaning behind each item. By decrypting the content, we aim to offer clarity on what you’re buying and what you can expect in terms of safety, efficacy, …